Caring for elderly parents in AZ: Preventing falls

Dr. Marian Hannan of Harvard Medical School recently published a study that may be of interest to those who are caring for elderly parents in AZ. The study is described in detail here, but the gist of it is that seniors who wear slippers, socks only, or go barefoot in the home are more susceptible to falls than those who wear sneakers in the home. This may seem intuitive, but the fact is that most people do not wear sneakers while lounging around the house. And, because falling can be extremely detrimental to seniors, something as simple as wearing sneakers more often may be extremely beneficial.

Caring for elderly parents in AZ can be trying at times, as there is much to stay on top of. Protecting the parent from falls is but one piece of the puzzle, and caregiving can become a fulltime job. It may come as good news to some that there are programs available to help Arizona seniors and their caregivers. Arizona Medicaid, known as Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS), is a valuable resource that provides financial support for qualifying Arizona seniors. ALTCS members may receive financial assistance for their medical needs that extends to cover the cost of caregiving.

Through ALTCS/Medicaid, family members may be able to receive payment for their time caring for their elderly parents. In addition, ALTCS may cover respite care, where a professional caregiver comes into the home to provide the family member who is caring for their elderly parent with a break. Caregivers need to make sure that their own needs are met, as well as the person for whom they are caring. Speaking with an Elder Law attorney about the Arizona Medicaid program may be a good place to start.